By Kenneth Marcos 
Under the bright Palawan sun, local fishers and environmental experts gathered in Coron on March 5–6, 2026, for the second Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting of the Blue Horizon: Ocean Relief through Seaweed Aquaculture Project. The event brought together key partners to discuss progress, strengthen collaboration, and plan next steps for sustainable seaweed farming in Southeast Asia.
Funded by the Global Environment Facility and implemented by the World Wildlife Fund – United States (WWF-US), the project is led regionally by SEAFDEC, with national execution handled by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-Philippines) and Vietnam’s Department of Fisheries (DFish). The initiative focuses on building sustainable seaweed value chains, providing livelihood opportunities for coastal communities, and promoting ocean-friendly aquaculture practices.
During the two-day meeting, participants reviewed overall project progress, shared best practices, and discussed strategies to improve monitoring, evaluation, and stakeholder engagement. Emphasis was placed on strengthening local capacities and ensuring that small-scale fishers benefit from improved production methods and market access.
Following the discussions, attendees visited the Calamianes Seaweeds Marketing Cooperative (CSMC) and BFAR Northern Palawan Monitoring and Surveillance Station to witness project activities firsthand. These field visits allowed participants to see practical applications of sustainable seaweed cultivation and the positive impact on local communities.
The Blue Horizon project is part of broader efforts to enhance coastal resilience, support sustainable fisheries, and create inclusive economic opportunities for fishers while protecting marine ecosystems. By combining regional collaboration, scientific guidance, and community engagement, the initiative aims to ensure a thriving and sustainable future for seaweed farming in the Philippines and neighboring countries.
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